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But head coach Jim Mallinder is keen to put last week’s humiliation behind them and respond in the best way at home to Tigers.

“Next week is big for us. We need to be better.

“We have that firepower, but it’s a case of us turning up on the day. I’d be very disappointed if we don’t see a reaction.”

Saints forward Courtney Lawes appeared on BBC Northampton’s Saints Show this week and is relishing another intense battle this weekend.

“We’ve had some unbelievable games with Leicester. It’s always an interesting contest and I’m sure it will be much the same this weekend. I’m very excited to get out there and play; it will be a great game.

“We play with a lot of them, which doesn’t stop me wanting to hit them as hard! I think we’ve got a very, very strong squad this week and there’s going to be some punches thrown!”

In terms of what Saints need to do to beat Leicester, Lawes was careful not to reveal too much.

“Can’t give any secrets away but we’ve obviously got strategies to get in. It’s always the physical battle. We need to front up and take it to them. Easy!”

There is no doubt that both sides will be desperate to get their seasons on track, and what better way to do it than a win over their arch-rivals in what promises to be a brutal encounter?